“You're right, Miss,” said she; “the mistress desired me to ask you in; she seen you from the windy, and desired me to bring your things too; you're to come in, then, Miss, you, an' the sarvint that's along wid you.”
On entering, an intelligent, respectable-looking female, of lady-like manners, shook hands with and even kissed Lucy, who embraced her with much affection.
“My dear Mrs. Norton,” she said, “how much surprised you must feel at this abrupt and unseasonable visit.”
“How much delighted, you mean, my dear Miss Gourlay; and if I am surprised, I assure you the surprise is an agreeable one.”
“But,” said the innocent girl, “your servant told me that you did not live here, and I felt so much distressed!”
“Well,” replied Mrs. Norton, “she was right, in one sense: if Mrs. Norton that was does not live here, Mrs. Mainwaring that is certainly does—and feels both proud and flattered at the honor Miss Gourlay does her humble residence.”
“How is this?” said Lucy, smiling; “you have then—”
“Yes, indeed, I have changed my condition, as the phrase goes; but neither my heart nor my affections to you, Miss Gourlay. Pray sit down on this sofa. Your maid, I presume, Miss Gourlay?”
“Yes,” replied Lucy; “and a faithful creature has she proved to me, Mrs. Nor—” but I beg your pardon, my dear madam; how am I—oh, yes, Mrs. Mainwaring!”
“Nancy,” said the latter, “take this young woman with you, and make her comfortable. You seem exhausted. Miss Gourlay; shall I get some tea?”